Balandra Beach or Playa Balandra is one of the most quiet, scenic beaches that are popular among tourists. Situated in Balandra Bay, the beach has a crystal clear sea surrounded by pristine white sand and nearby hills. It belongs to the Balandra Natural Protected Area, so tourists get to be close to nature with less of the fuss of larger beach destinations.
Getting There
To get to Balandra Beach La Paz there are a few ways available for tourists. The beach is about half an hour’s drive from the city of La Paz, which makes it an easy day trip destination. The easiest way, though, is to hire a car or take a taxi. If you are coming by car, there are signs indicating La Paz; take this road to Playa Balandra, which is quite an easy road to get lost.
The Beauty of Balandra
Indeed, what makes Playa Balandra different from other beaches of La Paz, Baja California Sur is that it is completely gorgeous. The local beach is quite famous, though there are no actual rocks that stretch out into the sea; the most famous rock is the mushroom-shaped one that appears in all sorts of pictures. There are enough hills and plants around to use them for sunbeds and wandering around the island. The best thing about the beach is that swimming, wading, and snorkeling are all possible due to the shallow water. From our canoe, we can get up close with some of the sea’s inhabitants such as fish, and occasionally there are sea turtles.
Exploring Playa Balandra
Swimming and Sunbathing
Swimming and snorkeling are well suited in the coastal waters, and those fond of swimming, especially kids, shall find the water very warm and shallow. It makes it a perfect place to drift and sunbathe due to the gently rolling waves. Take a beach sheet and spread it on the finer sand and relax for a day.
Snorkeling
Having said that, there is plenty of marine activity in and around Playa Balandra. Take a snorkel and a mask and swim in the clear water of this colorful marine life destination. There are always different species of fish and corals, and if you are lucky, you can see cute sea lions active here.
Hiking
Tourist enthusiasts of hiking should not miss a visit to Mirador Balandra. This viewpoint provides a photographer’s vantage point of the bay and the beach lying at a lower level. The exercise is fairly moderate and the best chance one gets to take some nice shots. The best time to go is in the morning or the evening since the sun is likely to be scorching.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Let’s include a list of suggestions that feature the beaches differently, such as renting a kayak or paddleboard to view the coastline. This is made easier by the fact that the water is relatively serene here, enabling a view of the various shaped rocks that litter the shoreline and concealed bays. Most of the local suppliers provide equipment for hire in situ, so you can easily find locations to rent from.
Dining Options
Though Playa Balandra, the beach, is beautiful and unspoiled, there are some restaurants around the nearby area. Incidentally, there are not many places to eat on the beach, so it will be wise to carry along your snacks or have a packed lunch. Nevertheless, two restaurants serve fresh seafood and Mexican food in a nearby location, which is about a minute’s drive.
You are also like this: Things to Do in Waikiki: A Comprehensive Guide
Accommodations Near Balandra
It is even more so if you are planning on making a longer stay in Playa Balandra and might prove helpful to locate hotels or lodgings in La Paz here. Accommodation is another factor in which this city has got it all, from quality five-star hotels to budget hostels. In general, tourists benefit from being in La Paz, which means it is easy to get to all those places, including Balandra Beach and other beaches in La Paz.
Recommended Hotels in La Paz
Hotel Marina: A comfortable accommodation type that has wonderful coastal scenery.
Casa Blanca: This comfortable and friendly boutique hotel is good for everyone.
La Paz Beach Hotel: As a location, it allows close access to a beautiful beach and numerous facilities.
Best Time to Visit
When choosing the time of the year best suited to visit Playa Balandra, think of the following. The favorable time of the year that tourists may go to the place is from October to May because of the favorable weather conditions. There are times when the sun shines very bright, especially during summer, and as a result, the beach is very congested. Furthermore, going in the shoulder season will allow you to avoid throngs of tourists but still get to see some sunshine.
How to Approach Playa Balandra
Arrive Early: To be sure to get a parking space and experience a calm morning, it’s best to arrive early, particularly on weekends and during holidays.
Pack Essentials: Do not go without sunscreen, a hat, enough water, and something to munch on. Throughout the trip, there’s no place where visitors can go and indulge in luxuries, meaning visitors need to carry everything with them.
Respect Nature: As you know we are in a protected area, so we must be careful not to harm the environment. Do not attempt to approach any wildlife and remove all litter you might have in the area.
Bring a Camera: The most impressive and even bizarre formations of rocks and cliffs are ideal for photo and video shooting, so do not leave home without your camera or even your cell phone.
Check the Weather: It is, however, important to note the forecast always before you start a journey. Playa Balandra is surrounded by a rocky coastline, and weather affects its conditions throughout the year, especially during storms when the sea is not calm and the water is not clear.
Nearby Attractions
Balandra Bay: The bay itself provides other zones to explore and spend time on the coast.
Playa Tecolote: This beach is very popular because of the number of beach clubs and excellent restaurants in the vicinity.
Isla Espiritu Santo: Within a couple of hours boat ride from here, it has snorkeling and scuba diving and beautiful scenery.
Is Balandra Beach Worth It?
Absolutely! According to the information, Balandra Beach is one of the most beautiful shores in Baja California Sur. The warm lobby overlooks the bright blue waters, and the mushroom-shaped rock in the actual cove provides the perfect scenery for those who simply want to unwind and take photos. In Balandra Bay, although I was snorkeling, which I highly recommend, lounging about in the waters is equally a memorable experience that recommends this place highly.
Is It Possible to Self-Arrange Your Trip to Balandra Beach?
Of course, it is possible to get to Balandra Beach independently. This is about a 30-minute drive from La Paz and thus can be reached by privately arranged car or by taxi. The nearest uncovered parking is available at the coast, so you can spend a quiet time in Balandra, swimming, going for a hike to Mirador Balandra, or just sunbathing on the fluffy sand of this place.
How Early Should I Arrive at Balandra Beach?
It is then recommended that one should get to Playa Balandra as early as possible, preferably before 9:00 AM. This way, you’re able to park and also have a relatively calm time until most of the people get in. For instance, during lunchtime, day end, and other busy hours, the parking zones may be occupied by vehicles. Coming early also enables one to have the serene moment of the beach and the well-lit morning photos.
Can You Swim in Balandra?
Rest assured, you can swim in Balandra Beach! The waters are generally quiet and the depth of the water is generally not deep, hence it is ideal for swimming and wading, especially for children. With the sands to sit on, these waters give good vibes such as a perfect swimming or snorkeling water. While enjoying this paradise located in Mexico, La Paz, there is one important thing to do – to keep the beach clean because of its wonderful wildlife and nature.